Sidney Blumenthal has
the inside story about what really went down at the opening of the Clinton library last week. Apparently Bush behaved like a total ass, and Rove wasn't much better. I highly recommend the entire article, but I've got some choice tidbits for you below the fold in case you don't have a Salon subscription ...
Update [2004-11-25 22:22:41 by Loudocracy]: bumblebums bellow provides us with the
link to the full story, no subscription necessary.
For example:
When the presidents were announced, Bush tried to push his way past Clinton at the library door to be first in line, against the already accepted protocol for the event, as though the walk to the platform was a contest for alpha male.
Update [2004-11-26 12:18:26 by Loudocracy]:(Even if you are not the kind of person to read comments, be sure to scroll about halfway down this page and take a look at JohnT's photo of Bush pushing ahead of Clinton that documents this moment. Priceless.)
Chimpy wasn't much better at the reception:
At the private luncheon of distinguished guests afterward, in a heated tent pitched behind the library, Shimon Peres delivered a heartfelt toast to Clinton's perseverance in pursuing the Middle East peace process. Upon entering the tent, Bush, according to an eyewitness, told an aide, "One gulp and we're out of here." He had informed the Clintons he would stay through the lunch, but by the time Peres arose with wine glass in hand the president was gone.
Rove, it seems, was just plain arrogant.
Offstage, beforehand, Rove and Bush had had their library tours. According to two eyewitnesses, Rove had shown keen interest in everything he saw, and asked questions, including about costs, obviously thinking about a future Bush library and legacy. "You're not such a scary guy," joked his tour guide. "Yes, I am," Rove replied. Walking away, he muttered deliberately and loudly, "I change Constitutions, I put churches in schools ..."